This is just a rumor, but it is a rumor now buzzing in several locations in Washington that McConnell and Schumer struck a deal before all this repeal kabuki theater. The basics are this.

McConnell would push for Obamacare repeal before having secured to votes to ensure there is no GOP deal. As a result, Obamacare repeal will fail, but the GOP can end the individual mandate and medical device tax.

In exchange, Schumer will let the Senate speed the pace of confirmation votes for the President’s nominees. Both sides will then work on a tax reform plan that includes replacing revenue lost from the medical device tax and propping up Obamacare.Read More…